Naoshima is a small island in the Seto Inland Sea that has been transformed into one of Asia's most celebrated contemporary art destinations through the Benesse Art Site project, developed by the Fukutake Foundation. The island is home to the Chichu Art Museum — designed by Tadao Ando and built entirely underground — alongside the Benesse House Museum, the Lee Ufan Museum and the Art House Project scattered throughout the traditional village of Honmura. Yayoi Kusama's iconic yellow pumpkin sculpture on the waterfront has become one of Japan's most recognisable artworks. The island seamlessly blends art, architecture and natural landscape.
- Type
- Venue
- Category
- Culture
- Season
- Year-round
- Month
- Year-round (closed Mondays)
- Region
- Shikoku
- Prefecture
- Kagawa
- City
- Naoshima
Highlights
- ◆Chichu Art Museum featuring permanent Monet, Turrell and De Maria installations
- ◆Yayoi Kusama's iconic Yellow Pumpkin sculpture on the seafront
- ◆Art House Project integrating contemporary art into historic village buildings
- ◆Architecture by Tadao Ando throughout the island
- ◆Quiet island atmosphere accessible by ferry from Uno or Takamatsu